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nature, and suffer for crimes committed against God, my prince and my country; and
cannot but discern the infinite justice God, when reflect the multitude my
against such, had unwarily espoused this unhappy cause.
Five days after, March 18, Christ. Blunt and sir Cha. Davers were executed on Tower
Hill. Davers bore his death with most Christian calmness and composure, having first craved God's pardon and the queen's, whom
1413] STATE TRIALS, Eliz. 1600. —and others, for High Treason. [1414
offences,
rity my punishment will make way for my
whom not that depend
assuredly hope rise again Christ: would thought any one my own merits, which absolutely
enmity. When
scaffold, inallner
-
Christopher Blunt came upon the
expressed himself the following
can little doubt but the seve.
mercy. We are exposed here sad spectacles and
admission into the embraces
instances human frailty; the death we are Grey's, who was there present,
undergo carries frightful aspect, (for
even the best men desire life) besides, that full ignominy terror; however,
the portion the best saints, with
acknowledged
from any injury purely the earl
had been
discard, but place my entire trust and de
pendance
“My lords, and you that present, although “I must coufess that were better fitting the ‘little time have breathe, bestow the
same asking God forgiveness for my mani
fold and abominable sins, than
other discourse, especially having both perfection speech, and God knows,
memory, reason late grievous wound: yet satisfy those that are present what course hath been held me this late en
the atonement my Saviour's am fully persuaded, that whoever
blood.
feels
whilst
earthly punishment, chastised
himself, groans under the infliction any
secret consolation within
paternal tenderness, and not and judicial way. But come
God with angry
use any im
the cause my death; there nobody-here can pos
weak
wished prosperity;
also the lord whom affected, not
had suffered from him, but Southampton's account,
whom the lord Grey profest absolute
sibly ignorant what wild commotion was
the least concerned therein, that whole day withiu the spent the time very melan
February, particular great, but unadvised earl. here call God, his angels, and my own conscience witness,
raised the 8th that was not
insti
“but was shut house, where
terprize, because was said
gator, and setter the late earl, will truly, and upon the peril my soul, speak the truth. -It true, that the first time that ever
understood any dangerous discontent ment my lord Essex, was about three Here was interrupted, and advised not years ago Wansted, upon his coming one
‘choly reflections. ” -
disguise the truth distinctions, nor palliate
day from Greenwich. At that time spake many things unto me, but descended into
his crime ceeded,
specious pretences. Then pro
confess crime black subject who lost his prince's fa
particulars,
which time
tending
test before God) until came into Ireland, other than might conceive, that was of an ambitious and discontented mind. But
“treason for
vour, force his way the royal presence: for my own part, never persuaded any man
but general terms. —After never brake with me any matter the alteration the state, pro
take arms against the queen, but am most heartily concerned for being instru ment bringing that worthy gentleman, Henry Nevil, into danger, and most ear
nestly intreat his pardon. And whereas said that one-and-twenty aldermen out the were devoted the earl's interest, only
lay
doubted then began
the castle Tho. Lee, called Ireland, grievously hurt, and
As thus spake, the Sheriff began in terrupt him, and told him the hour was past. serve him, but not the way open rebel But iny lord Grey, and sir, Walter Raleigh
meant that they were his friends, and ready
lion. "
Here was again interrupted, and began
apply himself his devotions, which managed with great deal fervour: and then making solemn profession his Creed, and asking pardon God and the queen, was dispatched the executioner,
tion: for, were weary living longer, once twice interrupted Cuffe, and ad vised him spare discourse, which however
captain the guard, called the Sheriff,
and required him not interrupt him, but
suffer him quietly finish his Prayers and Confessions. Sir Christ. Blunt said, sir
After him sir Gilds Merrick suffered
spake this manner: Sir Walter Raleigh,
thank God that you are same way, and with most undaunted resolu present; had infinite desire speak with
the design; and intreated those noblemen who
stood by, intercede with the queen, that there might not any farther proceedings
fort;" protesting before the Lord, that whatso ever Christopher meant towards him, for part never had any intent towards
the
rational was not very seasonable, when was
taking leave the world. He cleared the lord
Mountjoy from having any acquaintance with forgive him, and give him his divine com
when Reban,
my life; came visit me, and acquaint me with his intent. ’
Walter Raleigh there answered, Yea;
‘you, ask your forgiveness ere died, both for ‘wrong done you, and for my particular in “tent towards you beseech you forgive me. ’ Sir Walter Raleigh answered, “That most willingly forgave him, and besought God
Those the scaffold whom Christopher
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1415] STATE TRIALS, Eliz. 1600–Trial Sir Christopher Blunt, [1416
Christopher, “I pray you without offence, me put you
mind that you have been esteemed, not only principal provoker and persuader the earl
Essex his undutiful courses, but espe
cially adviser that which hath been con heard more of the matter. And then he
him : And further said to
Essex-House. And then again asked “my advice, and disputed the matter with me; but resolved not. went then into the coun
try, and before sent for me (which was
fessed his purpose transport great part her majesty's army out Ireland into Eng
wrote unto me, come up, upon pretence making some assurances land, and the like.
land, land Milford, and thence turn
against her sacred person. You shall well
tell the truth, and satisfy the world. ” To worthy Mr. Secretary, (to whom beseech which answered thus: “Sir, you will give you, Walter Raleigh, commend me) can
‘me patience, “now my last,
will deliver the presence
truth, speaking God, whose
requite their favourable and charitable deal ing with me, with nought else but my prayers
for them. And beseech God his mercy save and preserve the queen, who hath given comfort my soul, that hear she
mercy trust. '
self my lord Grey, and my lord Compton, and the rest that sat on horseback near the
directed him
And then
scaffold. “When was brought from Rehan hath forgiven me but the sentence the
“to Dublin, and lodged “ship and the earl
visit me; and
the castle, his lord Southampton came
short, began thus
law, which most worthily deserved, and
most willingly embrace, and hope that God
will have mercy and compassion me, wiro
have offended him many ways ever sinful wretch did. have led life so far from his
precepts, sinuer more. God forgive me and forgive me my wicked thoughts, oy licentious life, and this right arm mine,
‘plainly with me: That intended trans
‘port choice part the army Ireland into
‘England, and land them Wales, Milford, “or thereabouts; and securing his descent
some ten days before his rebellion) never
will leave the rest unto my confessions, given unto that honourable lord admiral, and
thereby, would gather such other forces,
“might enable him march London. To which fear me) hath drawn blood this
‘which protest before the Lord God, made last action. And beseech you all bear wit “this tho like answer; that would that ness that die catholic, yet so, hope
‘night consider which did. And the next day the earls came again; told them ‘that such enterprize, was most dan
saved only the death and passion Christ, and his merits, not ascribing any
thing mine own works. And trust you are good people, and your prayers may
‘gerous, would cost much blood, and
“could not like it; besides many hazards profit me. Farewel my worthy lord Grey,
‘which this time cannot remember unto “you, neither will the time permit But “rather advised him over himself with ‘good train, and make sure the court, and
With that he turned from the rail towards ‘it true, that (as we all protested our the executioner; and the minister offering
Fixaminations and Arraignments) we never speak with him, came again the rail, and ‘resolved doing hurt her majesty's Person; besought that his conscience might not trou (for none our Consultations was there bled, for was resolved; which desired for
set down any such purpose) yet, know, and God's sake. Whereupon commandment was
must confess, we had failed our ends, we given, that the minister should not interrup:
should (rather than have been disappointed) him any further. After which prepared
“herein, until was discharged his keeper
fuller Account the Trial Sir Christopher BLUNT, Sir Charles DAvers, Sir John DAvis, Sir Gilly MERRick, and HENRY Cuffe. [From MS. purchased
the Sale the MSS. Peter Neve, esq. Norroy King Arms. ”]
THE Commissioners were, the earl Not Chancellor the Exchequer, Mr. secretary tingham, Lord High-Admiral, the lord Huns Herbert, with divers the Judges. -
don, Lord Chamberlain, Mr. secretary Cecil, The Commission being read, the Court pro the Justice Popham, John Fortescue,
then make his own conditions. And although
even have drawn blood from herself. From
himself the block, and died very mantuly henceforward he dealt no more with me and resolutely.
. . . Although the Manuscript Sir
ceeded the Indictment, which was sub stance as follows
Charles Pavels,' yet the margin written
‘That the 8th day Feb. last, Essex ‘house, they conspired the death and disin
“herison the queen's majesty, and that ‘day caused insurrection the subjects,
Air: Neve's hand, “Sir Charles Danvers and Camden. --
and lord Compton, and you all. Goa send you"both live long honour. will
desire say few prayers, and embrace Iny death most willingly. ”
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-
J417] STATE TRIALS, Eliz. 1600. -and others, for High Treason, [1415
* and made war in London against the queen, must plead general, either Guilty not Guilty ‘and intended altering the government, state, the whole Indictment; and upon evidence ‘and religion now established, and to surprize excuse himself what parts can. Where ‘the court at Whitehall. The queen under
“standing of their intended Treasons, for pre aminations, that their meaning was eome “venting thereof, upon the 8th of Feb. sent the her such strength, they should not re * Lord Keeper, the earl of Worcester, sir Wm. sisted, and require her divers conditions * Knowles, and the L. C. Justice, to Essex and alterations Government, such their * house; they then commanded the earls of Confessions are expressed), nevertheless they
* Essex and Southampton upon their allegiance
* to desist from their purposes, to disperse their * forces assembled, and to deme:n themselves “as dutiful subjects. But they refused to obey
protested they intended personal harm herself. Whereupon, (as the Arraignment the two earls) so, then again the Judges
delivered the rule the law; that the wisdom their command; and committed them the and foresight the laws this land maketh said Lord-Keeper, earl of Worcester, Wm. this judgment, ‘That the subject that rebelleth
Knowles, and the Justice, strictly or riseth forcible manner over-rule the
kept and detained Essex-house, the “royal will and power the king, intendeth
said John Davis, keeping them force; “deprive the king both
and these words being used some, Kill that the law judgeth not
them Kill them And that the earl Essex, intent, but the intent
upon his going out the house, commanded the queen's Council did again inforce that point, that they should offer deliver them out setting forth, that was mystery quiddity
their custody, the said earl should mis the common law, but was conclusion carry London, then they should kill the infallibly reason and experience; for that said privy-counsellors and the earl Wor the crown was not ceremony garland, but cester. And that the same day they, with consisted pre-eminence and power. —And
crown and life: and
the fact the the fact. ' And
therefore, when the Subject will take upon
him give law the King, and make the
power sovereign and commanding, become that the said Charles Davers, Christ. subject and commanded; such subject layeth
Blunt, and John Davis, the said 8th hold the crown, and taketh the sword out day Feb. together with the earl Essex, the king's hands. And that the crown was did fortify the said house, and armed them fastened close upon the king's head, that selves against the earl Nottingham, the cannot pulled off, but that head and life, queen's Lieutenant, and against the queen's and will follow, examples, both
the number 300 men, went into the city London, seeking stir such citizens
they could move their Rebellion. And
army and forces sent for the suppressing the said Rebels. ’
foreign stories, and here home, make manifest. And therefore, when their words did protest one thing, and their deeds did testify
The Prisoners being demanded, whether they
were Guilty, not Guilty, the several another, they were but like the precedent Treasons whereof they were indicted Sir Christ. the protestation used Manlius the lieutenant Blunt confessed several the things contained Caliline, that conspired against the state
the indictinent, and would have pleaded not Rome, who began his letter the senate with guilty the rest but the Court told him these words, Deus hominesque testor, Patres
conscripti, nos nihil aliud, &c. —And was said Bacon, who command queen Eliza further, that admitting their protestations were
beth, published Declaration touching the far true, that they had not that time Treasons of the earl of Essex and liis accom their minds formed and distinct cogitation
plices, that part which relates what passed have destroyed the queen's person: yet the Arraignment Blunt, &c. says, “There nothing was more variable and mutable than were arraigned and tried Jury both the mind man, and especially Honores mu Aldermen London, and other gentlemen tant mores when they were once a-loft, and
good credit and sort, sir Christopher Blunt, sir had the queen their hands, and were peers Charles Davers, John Davis, Gilly Mer my lord Essex's parliament, who would pro rick and Henry Cuffe; the three first whereof mise what mind they would then espe before they pleaded, asked this question the . cially, when iny lord Essex, his arraign
Judges, Whether they might not confess the Indictinent part, and plead Not guilty
jesty,’ unto whose person (although they con membered Richard the 3rd, (who though sessed the bar, they had done their Ex were king possession, and the rightful inhe
the other part? But being resolved the
Judges that their pleading must general
they pleaded Not guilty, did likewise the
other two, without any such question asked.
The reason that question was, they con
fessed, respect the clause laid the In
dictinent; ‘That they intended and compassed
the death and destruction the queen's ma the question. Wherein the example was re
ment, had made defence his first action imprisoning the privy councellors, pretence that was inforced his unruly com pany. that themselves should not have had, would not seem have had, that ex treme and devilish wickedness mind,
lay violent hands upon the queen's sacred per son yet what must done satisfy the multitude, and secure their party, must then
atin
be
to of
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43
:
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1419) STATE TRIALS, 43 Eliz. 1000–Trial of Christopher Blunt, [1420
upon pleaded the Indictment, Not Guilty:
and put himself for his trial God and his
country. Sir Charles Davers made the like
protestation, but was directed the Court
plead the Indictment: and pleaded
Not guilty. Sir John Davis said, His case was sends for his friends and followers repair different from the rest; but seeing he must him. The queen hearing this, sends the plead negatively all, pleaded, Not Guilty. lord-keeper, the earl Worcester, sir William Sir Gilly Merrick and Mr. Cuffe were arraign Knowles, and the lord chief justice unto him.
upon These counsellors find the outward court
}. evying
but
upon Indictment,
another
the former Indictment, saving for guarded; these counsellors coming
the
the car, accomplices queen's forces there, and conspiring and plot lay down force, and desiring private conse.
ting Drury-house. rence with the earl; refuseth, and saith Yelverton, the queen's Serjeant, began the will into London, and take order with
war London and
assaulting
the commanded the earl and his
Evidence and opened the Indictment, shewed mayor and sheriffs the city, and will then the act itself Treason the statute return them again; confident he was
Edw. therefore for the prisoners pre his own strength and favour the city. The tend intent another purpose, excuse. other matters opened Mr. Serjeant were
To alter the state, change the religion, inforce the former points laid the Indictment.
the prince settle power, and for subjects Mr. Attorney-General Coke, coming urse sway things their list, crimen la'sa majes the Evidence, desired, because the bar was
tatis and all Indictments term this treason: pestered, have Gilly Merrick and Mr. for that subject that will rule his prince, will Cuffe removed for time, which was done. never ruled his prince; and rule with Then Mr. Attorney said, was now speak, his prince, the world may well bear two not before common judges, nor of common suns the state suffer two such governments. inatters, but the greatest and the weightest —For particular proofs and plain convincing
*
majesty: and these plots, their own confessions, were conferred and disputed
divers times. Being sent for come before the lords her majesty's privy-council, the earl refuses come; and the same night
the parties, there need other but their confessions; which protested, would
credited the world, came voluntarily from every man examined, man being racked
cause that ever had deal in, though had now served the queen some time. —The queen's Serjeant hath generally delivered the matter, and he was now prove what had been opened, wherewith had striven with himself have spoken nothing him that dead is" but unavoidable necessity forced name him, but should with these two cautions: first, speak nothing but what very matter enforceth; secondly, say Lo
thing but that without contradiction was true. The question now not you, my mas ters the Jury, whether Christopher Blunt
tormented. —It mency the queen
not unknown with what cle pass the orience commit
great place he, have suffered for less offence than was proved against him his convention before the lords. But such was her majesty's
clemency towards him, net suffer him brought public trial for those offences; but he, shew the mind bore, impatient
the earl
Ireland some
guilty Treason, yeaor for con expect the queen's leisure and grace, gives fesses himself guilty matter which rebel himself wholly think how may wrest the lion and insurrection, and that itself fiat
Treason.
Sir Christ. Blunt said hereupon, that
that should hold himself subject under her self, scarce compos mentis; therefore desired
queen his fancy. He being prisoner the Lord-Keeper's house, the queen was contented
was now man, what through weakness
any country
England where live, only confined with this, hurt, and through grief his action, not hin
him take his choice
guarded not concluded what he said, for This grace not hoped the lords had called him thither rather
majesty's displeasure; yet left
only with his own discretion.
withstanding, ceased not
foreigners, sends the Low Countries, prac
tises Ireland, raises spirits home Drury
house and Essex-house, for suppressing the and Christ. Blunt not now alone ques queen, calling parliament, taking the tion: but the earl concerned and interest
Tower, possessing London; and this cannot this cause, for order proceeding, there be intended without the destruction of her was no man the world but must be ruled
plot with divers
confess his faults, than excuse or defend them.
reason and precedent; therefore these ritors but infants) could never sleep quiet his men must, then would proceed against
bed till they were made away. Much less him. —Sir Christ. Blunt desired them pro would Catilinary knot and combination ceed against the others, for he would couiess rebels (that did rise without much the that had been said. But Mr. Attorney fume title) ever endure, that queen that desired heard against him, parna
had been their sovereign and had reigned paucis culpa aliis. Now, shew this point many years such renown and policy, should treason, the Indictment containeth the mat longer alive than made for their own ters touching the queen's person. private turn. ” Bacon's Works, vol. 534. cases, servants shall come their masters
Mr. Attorney said, they must now proceed,
if
insirto of
to bea to to
go
be to to be ed be of 25 ed
no in helet by as ; at
ofa toasbeantohe
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1421] STATE TRIALS, 43 Eliz. 1600. —and others, for High Treason. [1422
with armed petitions, this is a shew of disobe imponis. But the catastrophe, the conclusion, dience, and tendeth to destruction. To prove was the smothering the king, and putting the point of motiora, 8 Hen. 8, the Labourers death the Treasurer and Chancellor for,
of Kent made an insurrection against the Sta said she, the letter tute of Labourers, for the increasing of their traitors, therefore
the law such, we are long the king lives,
The story Richard calling Parliament, Pomfret-Castle, and the
prece
the Star-Chamber, some them were sen dents, and too fitting these Indictments. This tenced whipped; whereupon others con treason's bird hath been long a-hatching, like
wages. Finieux, and the Judges then, re we are solved this be Treason. Trin. 37 Eliz. the the Act
danger. Henry
king
wark, upon information made against them ting's Death following, are dangerous
Prentices London inaking rout South the [. . . "
spired rise Bunhill, and agree whip the mayor for suffering the Prentices
unto elephant's whelp, long a-breeding, but bred hollow tree, and discovered before was fledged. —It was forecast, that they were few, would not acted, they were many,
would not be concealed therefor resolved
few should know And upon the sudden, even when the matter was acted, then all have notice And for the tale being
whipped.
make judges
And this intending rise and insurrection, was resolved the Treason. —39. Eliz. Bradshaw, and
others closes, and
Oxfordshire, rising overthrow restore tillage; the rising was
Inslow-hill, the Indictment was Treason and
conspiring the queen's death, and adjudged murdered his bed, set upon sir Treason against the person the queen. " Walter Raleigh going the Lord-Treasurer's, Now, the law make this construction the this was but buz, and invented them acts mechanical men, what shall thought for buz: but on the other side, shall be
the acts earls, and other strong persons proved directly, that they intended kill sir
intending surprize the Tower, city, possess themselves the court, parliament, change government, religion
tend
the men
and quartered.
take the Walter Raleigh. was objected, that the
suddenly raised
may some may think themselves excus able Treason, because they knew not the Treason intended, though they were present
call tolerate
queen's forces that would would impediment
this action but pretend that treason. The Prentices London, the state generally was with them now, where
These intents force must needs Oxfordshire, were hanged, drawn
prevent this, was resolved
Chief Justice Popham delivered the reasons
this be, for that force compel the thing acted. For the clearing this, Mr.
the prince any government, itself Trea Attorney referred himself the opinion the son. - Judges the point whereupon was deli
The Attorney. He that conspires take vered my Lord-Chief-Justice, “That
London, and surprize the Court, this doth case, where some pretended Treason, and
merely concern the State; but this Catiline ‘others accompanied and assisted them any company, conspire against the queen her “action, though, not knowing the Treason
self, this concerns more but the toleration ‘intended, yet were they offenders Trea religion, this things concerns most for ‘son. ”
from before her coming the crown, her ma And for the honour the Indictment, and
jesty having holden constant profession manifesting the due their proceedings, Mr. the religion now established, and since her Secretary desired their Judgments, whether reign blessed God it; and for her now, case, “When men were actors and abettors
by compulsion otherwise, drawn ‘such matter, whether the law charged them change what impiety and ingratitude against ‘not this point with direct Treason against God were think it? This quarrel for the ‘the Person the prince? ' Which was affirmed changing religion, was the great cause the Judges
the Spanish Invasion intended 88, and the must charge them.
many treacheries against the Queen's Person, Now, for several Proofs against every several by poisoning her gloves, the pomel her sad person then arraigned, would first begin dle, and many other ways: therefore the with Christopher Blunt, and with his own request compulsion subject change Confession against him. The Confession of this true professed Religion, her majesty would sir Christ. Blunto contained this, That the rather lose her crown, and venture her per 20th Jan. was sent for the earl
son itself defence thereof, than ever suffer Essex come up London; whereupon endure Adeo periculosum this think? came, and was Drury-house when the con These things have shewed for precedents. ference was there the Sunday Monday seven Now for story, see the Chronicles our own night before the going into London. But came kingdoms. Queen Isabel, the time king when the conference was ended. The reason Edward 2: assembles great numbers, pretend their going into London, they did Sun ing for the good the King and the Church;
this was glorious pretence but she being See also Bacon's works, vol. 537, upon the wings her power, calling Parlia for the several Confessions relating Essex's ment the name the king, seeks the over Conspiracy, signed before the lords, and
throw the king, speciosaque nomina culpis others the Council,
so, and the Indictment
of in of
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it,
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be
be of
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1423] STATE TRIALS, 43 Fliz. 1600. -Trial of Sir Christopher Blunt, [1424
day the 8th of Feb. was, because the alarm been kyal and obedient law, hath accom was given at the Court, and knowing into what panied the earl ordinarily summons, and hazard the earl adventured, he went with him communicated with him and the reason
for safety of the earl's life, as far as there might
be power in him, and thought it lawful for sub jects to use force for their safety, and the set tling of true religion. And being asked by
Mr. Attorney, Whether he was privy to the purpose of taking the Court Said, he was
his words upon his first commitment, was sup posing Mr.
Mompesson have been Ca tholick, did request him help hion priest, but grieved afterwards was deceived Mr. Mompesson. And the Lord-Adamiral protested
knew that Mr. Mompesson was not affected that Religion, which sir John Davis thought true but said, Mr. Mlon pesson had not
privy to the conference of going to take the
court, but it was a thing first to be considered
of, but not resolved. And being further asked kept word with him, for promised upon
by the Secretary, if in their conference it was credit not reveal his request.
not resolved, that if the earl prevailed, and And prove Christ. Blunt was author came to the authority he shot at, he would and chief stirrer the rebellion London, have suffered Toleration of Religion ? an the Confession lord Sands was read, where swered, That he thought so ; and said, he
should be to blame to deny it; for the earl had
many times said to him, that he liked not the
forcing of men's consciences; and in his usual
talk would say, he misliked that any should be
troubled for their conscience. And in a second
Confession, he set down, that the earl, five
days before his going into London, wrote down
with his own hand certain Articles to be dis
puted upon ; whereof one was, whether they too forward that action, and gave charge should take the Tower another, touching the upon the pikes, but denied the killing ef.
moving of the secretary, he desired forbear that Walter Raleigh had sent speak with ance to express any further matter, gracing him, Christopher advised Gorge
of himself. And the said Confession, sir him and this end, Christopher sent four Christopher seemed dissuade from the shot after him when went speak with
attempt intended, but utterly disliked the taking the Court that time the night. —For
farther Proof against Christ. Blunt, that had wrought with the earl for Toleration
Treligion, and sought seduce John Davis;
the Confession sir John Davis was read,
wherein was set down, that John Davis him, but meet him upon the water, and asking Christ. Blunt, the earl had pro take some pistols with him, that case mised Toleration Religion, the Catholic Walter should not suffer him come off, thr Religion Sir Christopher answered, that the then should force corne away, and earl gave good hope And Davis his bring Walter with him; and this was
Confession set down that principally the persuasion Christopher, became
Catholick therefore being taken and com mitted Mr. Mompesson's, desired Mr. Mompesson help him priest. But
advice. And being asked Mr. Secretary, whether thought, was persuaded that
lord Cobham, Walter Raleigh intended any such thing against the earl Sir Christ pher answered, that did not believe that they ever meant any such matter, nor the ean himself feared not, only was word cas out colour other matters. -Gorge also co fessed, that the earl intended, after had Pos
the bar, Davis said, that many times had
conference with Christopher touching Reli
gion, but was not the original persuader
him unto that religion; but being bred
Oxford, his tutor, Mr. Allen, was Catholick, sessed himself the court, then have gone and from him he took and hath ever lived into London with some principal otficers
free from giving offence his profession; and state, carried with him, and after while saving this unhappy action, hath always have called parliament, and settled things
was set down, that he went with the earl
sheriff Smith's, but went not into the house:
but being sent for the earl, went with him,
and came back with him, towards Ludgate;
and sir Christ. Blunt and the lord Sands,
the chain before their coming Ludgate, gave
charge upon the queen's forces, and were to
hurt that place.
Sir Christ. Blunt at the bar confessed was
surprizing of the court 2 and that the earl usually spoke of this purpose to alter the go vernment of the realm. But the examinant
desired that might not have been set down, be cause it was no grace unto the rest. —Mr. Se cretary desired to know the reason wherefore he would not have had this set down, which he understood to be, for that the confession was so liberal of matters so foul, as this being added, it would embroider the rest ? But sir Christo pher said, he was mistaken ; but the altering of the Government being moved, and the re
that place, which Mr. Attorney charged him withal; but desired Mr. Attorney
think charitably him, and not charge Him with that man's blood.
Then Mr. Attorney proceeded prove, that
where was pretended and given out buz, that sir Walter Raleigh should have song:
have murdered the earl, that indeed they sought murder sir Walter Raleigh, which purpose the Confession Ferdinando Gorge was read wherein was contained, that the earl and Christopher, that Sunday morning
Walter Raleigh. —But Blunt said, that
Ferdinando Gorge did much wrong him saying but confessed, that respect Fei
dinando was one the principal execu tioners this business, wished Gorge
naked Walter, nor home
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1425) STATE TRIALS, 43 Eliz. 1600. —and others, for High Treason. [1426
liking. And Mr. Secretary said, that Ferdinando Gorge being confronted with the earl, had said much; and satisfy those questions, would have Gorge sent for.
come without being discerned any; but the earl still refused. Sir Christ. Blunt confessed
heard Mr. Secretary Herbert's coming, but wished God had dealt more peremp torily with the earl. Mr. Secr. Herbert said,
was not inore peremptory with him than the words the queen's own message, which delivered directly. Mr. Secr. Cecil affirmed, that such was the respect given the earl, and nothing should break out the understanding others, was once resolved all the council have gone hone him his own house. Sir Christopher said, that the earl kept very secret himself the cause his sending for the Lords the council, and
To prove that Christopher Blunt would not take notice the Proclamation published
London herald Arms, the confession capt. Edward Bromley was read, wherein was set down, that the earl coming from sheriff
Smith's house, saw Grace church-stre, herald Arms, and sent Ci, istopher him,
tell him, that should not approach the earl, for would not hear him abuse the
queen's name. Anti prove that Chris
topher was chief director things done
the house that Sunday-morning the 8th Feb. what Mr. Secretary Herbert's message was; for
was shewed, that Mr. Killegrew the Privy being asked what was, said, that such was
chamber coining that morning Essex-house, Christopher meets him the Court, and
Mr. Killegrew told him, that had message from the queen William Knowles; and hearing Christopher Blunt that
liain was gone, would have gone back again, but Christopher said, must not and
smiling upon him, wished him not take discourteously, for must stay him. —But
Christ. Blunt said hereupon the Bar, that the reason the staying Mr. Killegrew was this; Mr. Killegrew being gentleman
the queen's opinion him, for those dis graces, her council being consult great matters, she had sent have him amongst them, and have his opinion.
Mr. Attorney further urged, That the queen's exceeding favour rested not there but even the same Sunday morning before his going into London, the queen sent Mr. Sec. li. e. bert hiin, signify him, that her pleasure was should come before her council, which re fused again; and thus was true with him, that consuetudo peccandi, did tollere sensum
whom knew the queen trusted, told him, peccati. Her majcsty notwithstanding, after would desire him stay the house, and both these refusals, vouchsafeth again the send hear the matter, and see their proceedings, ing unto him, maketh choice his best friends that might truly inform the queen that and nearest allies he had the court; the which knew would diversly and strangely ‘Lord-Reeper, the Lord-Chief-Justice, two that
spoken But against this, Mr. Killegrew loved him exceedingly well while stood
himself said, that was stad Christo good servant and true subject; the earl pher these words; must deal somewhat Worcester and sir William Knowles his near
unmannerly with you, and stay you now till
you have spoken with my lord and sent
John Davis tell my lord Essex where
upon the earl, accompanied with divers others,
came Mr. Killegrew. —Mr. Attorney pcr
ceiving some shiftings Christopher Blunt's - Lord-Keeper stoutly, the midst his armed answers, willed him confess things plainly, troops, commands the earl upon his allegiance
otherwise would prove him guilty the earl's desist from his purpose, and lay down death. Whereupon Christopher wished arms; when others the tumult cried, My that his death were worthy restore the earl lord, my lord, you stay too long; others, said,
life again but for his Confessions, they had Kill them kill them and, this time. Blunt always been plain and true from the first, and advised the earl imprison them, which
plain knew wherein appealed
Mr. Secretary, had found other him. Mr. Secretary acknowledged that had al
Treason itself.
But Christ. Blunt said, that his advice
iny lord then was, that the place was unfit talk being openly the court, and that therefore he would withdraw into some some private place.
But my Popham said, that himself hearing the company tumultuously cry “Away, away, you lose time:’ hereupon stept the
earl, and persuaded him withdraw into some
place private, and there consult with them. . . . And manifest what manner the lords were
ways found him deal honestly and plainly.
Now, come the great matter against sir
Christ. Blunt, and the rest. The queen's ma jesty having intelligence their intended trea
sons, yet graciously disposed extenuate the
offence the earl, commands her privy-council to meet at the lord-treasurer's house on Satur
day night, and that night sends Mr. Secre
tary Herbert the earl, signify unto him,
that was the queen's pleasure should re
received and used, and how they found the
pair unto her council there but the earl re fused come. Mr. Secretary Herbert, the
house their coining in, Narrative was read,
rather invite his coming, offered the
set down my Lord-Keeper, under his own hand-writing, which was thus: That coming
coach with him alone without any light, take Essex-house the 8th Feb. , about ten the
boat and water, that they should and clock the morning, they found the gates i.
kinsmen. These lords valiantly, (for will term and their honours will speak that shall appear that some gown-men there rests valiant minds, where the cause requires them that wear swords:) The
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1427] STATE TRIALS, 43 Eliz. 1600. —Trial of Sir Christopher Blunt, [1428
shut. Upon their knocking, the wicket was
opened, but none of their servants suffered to
enter in with them, save only J. Hughs, who
carried the great seal. From the gate to the
house-door stood a guard of shot on both sides; before. And, said Mr. Secretary, equality
justice would suffer wished that blood more might spilt for was not the blood any man that was required, and the queen should gain more their lives than their deaths; and doubted not but her majes
hear it; but hearing that he had assembled so mercy. The earl Rutland's Confession many into that house, and not knowing for what shewed further, that Blunt, when their going cause, the queen had commanded them to com the court was intended, said, how fear mand him to disperse those companiës. The ful, and how several humours shall we find earl answered, that his life had been sought ; them, when we come the court
at their coming in, the company assembled tumultuously together; before their coming to the hall-door, the earls of Essex, Rutland, and
Southampton came and met them, and divers others flocked about the earl. The Lord
Keeper stepping to the earl of Essex, told him,
this lamentable accident, would triumph mercy, but where and when there should grievance ; if there was any, the queen would appear other cause but merely her exceeding
that they were sent to know the cause of their
he had been perfidiously dealt with, and for defence that company his followers and friends were gathered together. The Lord Keeper answered, any such matter was, should heard and relieved. Hereupon the earl Southampton said, “that was assaulted
the street
ee
Further, enforce the hard usage the lords, the Confession one Whittington was read, who said, That after the Lord-Keeper and the other lords were the inner room, other company coming towards the place,
swore they would stab and kill the counselors; whereupon Whittington sent the earl Essex, how violently some men pressed, how
with the Plot; and the earl of Essex himsel; had said, that the earl Rutland was not privy
for his conceit him was, and thus said, that the earl of Rutland knew but two hours
the lord Gray. ’ The L. C. Jus
justice
}. gathering thick about them, the Lord cruelly they meant against the counseilors?
tice
answered,
had
for that. The com
per
and they conferring secretly, the company
desired the earl Essex draw
aside; Christopher hearing words, said,
these was
cried, All, all. The Lord-Keeper told the earl,
that had any wrong done him, should left, that the earl Essex miscarried Lor
honourably righted. Then the company
cried, “Away, away, my lord, they betray you,
don, they offered escape before
turn, then the Lord-Keeper and the Chief-Jus tice should be killed.
they undo you. ' All this while they were bare,
but hereupon the Lord-Keeper put his hat, The C. J. hereupon asked sir Christo
and commanded the earls upon their allegiance pher, Why they stood the great chamber
desist, and lay down their weapons: and private conference being again desired, they were carried into the great chamber, and
they went, some said, ‘Throw the great seal out the window; some said, “Kill them, kill them others cried, “Away, away. ’ Then
door with muskets charged and matches their hands; which, through the key-hole,
said, discerned Davis answered, and said, was charged with the custody the lords, but against his will, for much more desired have gone with the earl into
they were led into one The Lord-Keeper pressing earl, said, My lord,
the earl's closets. London, and that the earl Southampton,
will take advice, speak with my lord mayor, and the sheriffs London, and will with you again within this half hour. Then
the earl departed, and left them the custody John Davis, Christ. Blunt, and
Gilly Merrick. The lords being thus custo dy, desired leave gone, that they might
send one the queen let her know how they were used but this was denied them and
speak with the patient while;
Charles Davers, some other might have kept them; but the earl Essex said, No,
would but take order with London, and come again within half hour, the mean
time should keep them. Then captain Sa lisbury having the guard the muskets, was
very violent and disordered, doubted what would attempt, and, contrary the will others, brought the shot near the door. And sir John Davis said, that iest the fury Salisbury should attempt beyond that
answered, that the earl would return shortly, was meant, sometimes passed amongst the and his return they must not them go. shot, and satisfy the lords that harm was The earl Rutland's Confession being read meant them, came them, whom when after the former Narration the Lord-Keep perceived some fear, assured them
er's; thereby appeared, that the earls Es that there should be no force offered them.
sex and Southampton, and Christ. Blunt, But the C. Justice told sir John Davis long time had been discontented, and that the bar, that had reason think they Blunt many times advised the earl stand were fear, and bade him tell what words the upon his guard; and was the advice the Chief-Justice then used, which were these: earl Southampton, Blunt, and Davis, that they did take their lives, was but the cutting the lords should be detained. off few years; and when Gorge came, and
For the earl Rutland himself, Mr. Secre would have out the Justice only, tary suid, thought him not acquainted refused except they might go; and
time now make orations. Whereupon the earl Essex presently departed, and word
he of
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1 129]
said, together,
STATE TRIALS, 43 Eliz. 1606–and others, High Treason. [1430
they came together, they would die together.
Hath my lord that gone said me? Well, since am nearly touched honour, and my reputation far charged, will tell you,
And sir John Davis said, that the better
assure the lords that no harm was meant them, Mr. Secretary, what have counselled him, and
he went up the ladies, and intreated the countess Essex come down, and amongst them she making some pause
saying, With what comfort can amongst them He persuaded her and amongst then, the better assure then that no barbit rous usage should offered unto them. And
so God,
that behaved himself respectfully towards
them, being uncovered before them, when
others stood covered them and such pro did, being brought into the Court Wards
visions the house had, prepared for them, and sct them dinner.
But the Justice said, My lord-keeper
and told Davis, they would eat none my lord's meat.
then after Judgment was given.
Mr. Attorney proceeding with his Evidence,
desired attention, saying, That the last day gave Evidence against the earl, since which time had been rumoured, that though the let ter the law was strong against the earl, and his act expounded the law Treason, yet his intention was not touch the queen's person her state. But the earl himself (whose soul doubted not but was with God, for his end was most penitent and Christian) before
But the coming down amongst the counsellors,
the countess John Davis said, great doubt
tended any hurt unto the queen, his sword his arraigning, save only one original purpose, should the first that should drawn against not lay hands upon the queen; and took him. And the Justice asking what was upon his death, that meant not lay violent become the earl that while, they having hands upon the queen's person; yet remember then staid from eleven of the clock till was ing the tumultuous behaviour them his almost two, said, the earl will be deceived conpany his house, said, that feared
his purpose hope upon the City, for the should have been forced some wrong against citizens are faithful the queen. Then Davis the queen's person.
answered, the earl had good hope the City. Whereupon the Lord Admiral affirmed, that being replied, That perhaps some loose peo the earl Essex said, was should die,
that perceiving the lords
what the earl meant, and hearing them say my lady, What strange course this the earl
what have kept him from. —Mr.
said, the earl for part his sacrifice
had left under his own hand all that he could
disclose of all confederation this matter.
Sir Christ. Blunt seemed ready the bar
have disclosed faither matter against the earl,
but referred my Lord Admiral and Mr. Secre
tary, whether should there utter privily deliver to them two which afterwards he
Essex taketh Thereupon John Davis
said, that did perceive that the earl in his death revoked all his Justifications made at
ple might fall into him, but could have good hopes any that were substantial and good citizens; Davis said, my lord sure the city, for
and my lord
the City
But the honour the City London, Mr. Attorney often repeated, that the City, not one man, save only one sorry prentice, was found take part with, and Inns-of court-men, not one man that followed him.
Sir John Davis being farther asked, when first was made acquainted with this purpose the earl's He said knew not till the Sunday seven night before their rising, and then their purpose was surprize the court such
time should have small opposition; and that they met twice that Sunday Monday before their rising, Drury-house, when they
for the queen could not live and too.
Mr. Secretary also delivered how clear Con session the earl had made things; how aldermen sure 21, long time four them her majesty's privy
this action will set such aids places, spoil shall happen.
council his intreaty had spent with him the Tower upon Saturday before, and how
had revoked those imputations had cast upon some men, and those asseverations had
his own defence. Therefore, for his part, must needs judge charitably him, and forgive such wrongs the earl had done him and the diabolical imputation which the earl his arraignment cast upon him, further moved him
impatiency than his wont was, was fit, desired then that heard pardon him, for the provocation made him forget bands
speech.
Now was read some parts the earl's last
Confession, which contained four sheets pa consulted about surprising the Tower and the per, written with the earl's hand; and
court. But debating long, they could not being shewed Cuffe the bar, he acknow agree whoreupon breaking off, the earl said, leged the earl's hand-writing. Out
would set order for himself, since they the earl's Confession this was only read: That
could not agree Southampton, ADavers, and
which were the earl Christ. Blunt, - Charles
Blunt, Cuffe, Temple, and some others, though they were not present Drury house, yet they were privy more dangerous practices and
John Davis.
Hereupon Mr. Secretary told Christopher plots than these. And Cuffe being brought
that the earl had confessed that he had been face face before the earl, the earl charged principal instigator him these acts, and him call God for mercy, and deal truly mover him plots more pernicious the with the queen; for being out the state than these. —Sir Christopher Blunt said, world, must deal truly with his soul. Cutie said,
to sir
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1 131] STATE TRIALS, 45 Eliz. 1600–Trial of Sir Christopher Blunt, [1432
it was long before he could be allowed pen and
ink to write; else the earl himself would have
cleared him, as he did in these things, that in a
few words he set down; which be ng read to
the earl, he said, true; and still as he read, he
said true; out of which Culle would infer, that
the earl being truly remembered of things passed,
would have cleared, and not left an accusation
upon him. But these seemed to be other mat
ters than such where with the earl had charged
him. And Cuffe denied not, but being con never intended, appeared for Lee Inus:
fronted by the earl, the words aforesaid were the rebel, but the earl must not know used to him. Then was read an abstract of the and Blunt must suffer being Marshal, but earl's Confession in these words: “He thanked give warrant for Lee goes Tyrone,
God that he was thus prevented, for otherwise
he knew not what misery might have befallen
this land. He said, that men would wonder, if
they knew how many motions had been made him perform; which was baser thing than
him,
unto to remove the evils of the common
wealth. He confessed that his rebellion was
ever had offered his father, or would against qual
and would give his son for pledge and sends word, that the earl would follow his counsel,
would make him the greatest man that ever
first plotted when he was prisoner at the lord
keeper's house; he intended to have surprized rone, that desired conference with the earl,
the court with a power of men, and afterwards the Tower, to have countermined his actions, and been a bridle to the city, and then to have called a parliament. He said, that London was a danger unto his soul, and the cause of his rebellion; for if he had not trusted to those of London, he had not taken this course. He
was England. Essex repairs
Lee being returned, the earl
the place where Blunt lay,
fore you shall plainly have it proved unto you, That there was a correspondence betwixt the earl of Essex, sir Christ. Blunt, and the Arch Traitor Tyrone; and this shall be proved unto you by the carl's own creatures. . Thus it out, after had 16,000 foot, and 1,300 horse
under his charge; such army, himself said, should make the earth tremble where went. was pretended him that would into the north against the rebel, but
finds the rebel proud terms against the English nation, railing against the earl Essex,
that sought his life, and hired some about
him but these terms were after fied.